Mall reopens for shopping, grieving

People returned to the Westroads Mall in Omaha, most to shop for the holidays but some to grieve in the place where three days earlier a gunman killed eight people and himself.

Within the mall, however, the Von Maur department store where Robert Hawkins, 19, fired an AK-47 on Wednesday remained closed. A memorial had been assembled at its inside entrance. Wreaths sat on tripods just outside the doors. Hawkins’ family released a statement through the Rev. Mark Miller of Faith Presbyterian Church: “The Hawkins family extends its sincerest condolences to all those impacted by this senseless and horrible event. While no words can ease the pain and grief, our family prays that at some time, in some way, our community can be healed in the aftermath of this terrible tragedy.”